APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR USE IN THE REMOVAL OF MATERIAL FROM BODY CAVITIES BY SUCTION

摘要

Apparatus and method for use in the removal of material from body cavities by suction. The apparatus comprises a catheter (3), a suction unit (1) and a collection container (2) disposed between the catheter and suction unit, the collection chamber (2) being provided with a filter (14). …To facilitate preparation and examination of material collected in the container (2), it is connected to a source of fluid (4 or 5) for washing and/or treating material collected in the container. In accordance with the preferred method, the washing and/or treating is carried out continuously. …Also disclosed is a flexible catheter for use in such apparatus or otherwise. To facilitate removal of persistently adhering material, the or each suction opening is surrounded at least in part by rigid material providing a hard edge. There is further disclosed a suction catheter having a closed end and a lateral opening. To facilitate manipulation, the closed end is asymmetrically rounded.